What’s up, everyone?! It’s been a minute since I updated this space. More than a year, in fact. In June 2019, my dad passed away unexpectedly. There’s a lot I want to write and share about that experience (to both heal and to hopefully help others). Eventually.
By August 2019, I was back in Nashville, teaching a new group of students at a new school. The school year was incredible. That is, until it ended abruptly on March 2 when a tornado tore through our city. You know what happened next.
The past six months (sometimes it feels more like six weeks, and others, closer to six years) have been a blur. Many (most?) days have been a struggle. At times, however, I’ve been able to concentrate and create, which is why I wanted to share this update:
1. Mrs. G and I started a weekly newsletter that middle and high school educators should definitely check out! Every week we’re sharing high-interest articles, books, poems, videos, songs, podcasts, etc. that you can share with students, colleagues, and families. You can download the first three newsletters for free here!
2. During quarantine, I spent a whole bunch of hours putting together an educator guide for Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds. I think (hope?) you will find it valuable! It costs $10, but if you buy it and don’t feel like you got anything out of it, I have no problem Venmo’ing your money back.
3. If there’s anything I can do to support you and/or your students, don’t hesitate to reach out! jarred.amato@gmail.com And if you’d like to join Project LIT Community, apply here! We’ve got a bunch of exciting things planned for this school year.
4. I’m not sure how often I will blog here (the weekly newsletter should be a lot of fun!), but you can always find me on Twitter.
Sending lots of love to you and your students, and as always, happy reading!
Jarred
DR. JARRED AMATO 